Hiring a trustworthy divorce attorney is an important decision, whether you work with them from the beginning to end of your divorce or on a limited basis. Your attorney can affect the cost, course, and outcome of your divorce. To find the right attorney to help with your divorce, ask these questions when you meet:
How long have you been practicing divorce law and how many cases have you handled?
If I hire you, will you or someone else with your firm handle my case?
If my spouse and I can’t agree on an issue in our divorce, how would you to help us break our stalemate? Would you suggest we try mediation?
Do you practice collaborative divorce law?
Have you ever had a case like mine? How did you handle it?
What do you see as the strengths and weaknesses of my divorce case?
Knowing what you know about my situation, how would you proceed if I were to hire you?
If I call you, how quickly can I expect to have my calls returned?
What is your hourly rate and can you give me an estimate of how much my divorce will cost?
Will I have to pay you a retainer? If so, how much will it be?
What sort of expenses should I expect to pay, and how much do you estimate they will be? Are there things I can do to minimize them?
Will you provide me with an estimate of my expenses and an explanation of what those expenses may include?
If my divorce goes to trial, will you continue to represent me or will you recommend another attorney?